Sitting At The Table During Meals Is More Important Than You Think

Sitting at the dinner table is one of the most important parts of your day. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are meant to be social times for families to talk about their day. From the morning check in to the end of the day wrap up, the dinner table serves many purposes.

If you are a dad that eats around the TV for convenience, it is time to rethink how you serve your meals. Having time with your kids preparing the meal can be great for conversations starters. Eating a meal together provides for endless conversations lost to TV or Video Games.

Meal time at the table can help your children strengthen their vocabulary. The interaction among siblings and adults increases a child's vocabulary. Conversations also lead to social development. Topics such as bullying, moral character and emotional bonding can be tied into dinner time conversations.

Afraid a new habit is hard to start. Here are 4 tips for conversations at the table to help get your started:

Discuss the child’s day. Express an interest in your child’s daily life.

Discuss current events. Bring up news that's appropriate for your child’s age.

Let all family members talk. Be an active listener and be sure your child learns to listen as well.

Encourage your child to participate. Do not underestimate your child’s ability to hold a conversation.

You will notice in a few weeks a huge difference in your children's dining habits and be one proud dad for making the effort to make meal times family time. If you would like additional tips for meal prep, we also have a cooking blog to help fathers plan meals. The link will be provided as a resource under Fatherhood Resources.